Canadian studio Quinzhee Architecture has lifted a cedar-clad residence on stilts for a ski house in Québec.
Known as Residence Chez Léon, the 1,390-square-foot (129-square-metre) house was completed in 2023 on a sloping, forested property in Charlevoix, Canada, that overlooks the St Lawrence River.
Quinzhee Architecture designed Residence Chez Léon in Charlevoix
Quinzhee Architecture, which is based in Québec City, worked with the owners to create what it described as "a contemporary chalet in harmony with its environment."
Heavy concrete footings provide the base for large square columns that create a protected area underneath the house so that residents can enjoy the outdoors during the winter months.
The cedar-clad residence is built on stilts Lying perpendicular to the slope, a concrete monolith was partially buried in the hillside and contains an entry vestibule, laundry room and all-white tiled bathroom, as well as storage for mountain bikes and ski gear.
The rectangular volume was lifted above the terrain at the level of the surrounding treetops, which are visible through large, south-facing bay windows.
The living-and-dining area looks south through a wall of windows
Vertical cedar planks wrap around the entire upper storey, alleviated by structural bays and a metal flashing cap along the roofline.
A delicate white metal staircase spirals up to the main level, which is lit through a large wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling window that dissolves the ext...